Rabbit breeder Annette Edwards told the Sun newspaper that Simon, whose father Darius was the world’s biggest rabbit at 4ft 4in long, was being transported to its new celebrity owner in the U.S. at the time of his demise. It wasn't immediately clear when the 3-foot long, 10-month old bunny died or what caused his death. United said it was reviewing the matter.

"Maybe the giant rabbit wouldn't give up his seat," tweeted a Florida resident named Linda, referring to the violent removal of David Dao from a United flight at O’Hare airport to make room for a crew member earlier this month.